Video-recording system, meta-data addition apparatus, imaging apparatus, video-signal recording apparatus, video-recording method, and meta-data format

ABSTRACT

In order to present a video-recording system capable of managing a video material and meta data related to the video material in an integrated manner by directly linking the meta data to the video material, the video-recording system is provided with a meta data addition apparatus for adding the meta data to every frame of a video signal generated by an imaging apparatus as a video signal representing the video material and a VTR for recording the video signal including the additional meta data onto a recording medium. In such a configuration, concurrently with a shooting operation carried out by using the imaging apparatus, meta data related to a video signal generated in the shooting operation can be sequentially added to every frame of the video signal and, then, the video signal including the additional meta data can be sequentially recorded onto the recording medium. Thus, the meta data and the video signal can be recorded on the same recording medium by directly linking the meta data to the video signal so that the meta data and the video signal can be managed in an integrated manner.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to a video-recording system for recordinga video signal generated in a shooting operation and meta data relatedto the video signal, relates to a meta-data addition apparatus, animaging apparatus and a video-signal-recording apparatus, which areemployed in the video-recording system, as well as relates to avideo-recording method adopted by the video-recording system andmeta-data format.

In recent years, in the field of producing video works such as moviesand TV programs, effective utilization of meta data related to a videomaterial obtained from a shooting operation is promoted. The meta datarelated to a video material includes information on attributes of avideo work and setting information of apparatus such as an imagingapparatus and a lens apparatus, which are used in the shootingoperation. For more information, refer to Japanese Patent Laid-open No.Hei 9-46627. The attributes of a video work include the title, shootingdate and scene number of the video work. These pieces of meta datarelated to video materials are information useful for identifying andmanaging shot the video materials and effectively used at the stage ofpost-processing carried out on the video materials. The post-processingincludes a CG (Computer Graphics) synthesis process and a compositeprocess.

Traditionally, such meta data related to a video material is recordedand managed by using a terminal such as a personal computer separatelyfrom the video material, which is normally recorded on a recordingmedium such as magnetic tape, and the meta data is linked to the videomaterial by assigning a code to both the meta data and the videomaterial. An example of the assigned code is a code indicating a time atwhich images of the video material were taken. Then, in a process todisplay the video material or post-processing of the video material, themeta data related to the video material is read out from the terminalfor managing the video material by specifying the time code assigned toboth the meta data and the video material.

However, the conventional method of recording and managing meta data hasa problem that processes such as operations to extract and displaynecessary meta data are carried out inefficiently because a videomaterial is linked to meta data related to the video material indirectlyby using time codes cited above or the like. Further, the conventionalmethod of recording and managing meta data has another problem that thenecessity to record and manage meta data separately from a videomaterial associated with the meta data causes inconvenience.

In addition, the conventional method of recording and managing meta datahas a further problem that, if either one of a video material and metadata related to the video material is edited, the meta data can nolonger be continuously extracted and displayed in synchronization withthe video material. Furthermore, the method of linking meta data to avideo material associated with the meta data by using a code such as atime code has a limitation that, if the video material is a videomaterial shot at a variable speed by changing the frame rate of aresulting video signal representing the video material, there will be adiscrepancy between the number of frames composing the video materialand the number of recorded pieces of meta data.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

It is thus an object of the present invention addressing the problemsdescribed above to provide a new and improved video-recording systemthat is capable of extracting and displaying necessary meta data relatedto each of video materials with a high degree of efficiency, capable ofmanaging the video materials and the meta data and capable of keeping upwith processing to edit a video material and a variable-speed shootingoperation with a high degree of flexibility by directly linking each ofthe video materials to meta data related to the video material, andprovide a video-recording method to be adopted in a system like thevideo-recording system.

In order to solve the problems described above, in accordance with anaspect of the present invention, there is provided a video-recordingsystem for recording a video signal generated by an imaging apparatusand meta data related to the video signal onto a recording medium. Thevideo-recording system may add the meta data to the video signal ofevery frame and record the video signal including the additional metadata onto the recording medium.

In the configuration described above, concurrently with a shootingoperation carried out by using the imaging apparatus, meta data relatedto a video signal generated in the shooting operation can besequentially added to the video signal for every frame and the videosignal including the additional meta data can be further recorded ontothe recording medium. Thus, since the meta data and the video signal canbe managed in an integrated manner, it is not necessary to establishmatching between the meta data and the video signal when using the metadata.

The meta data added to the video signal may be packed in one or moremeta-data groups intended for different purposes of utilizing the metadata. In such a configuration, at least a part of the meta data can beextracted in meta-data group units. Thus, it is possible to extract onlya specific meta-data group required for utilization of the specific metadata from the meta data and display the specific meta data or replacethe specific meta data.

Further, the meta-data groups may include at least one of ascene-information group, a camera-setting group, a lens-setting groupand a dolly-setting group. The scene-information group is a meta-datagroup containing information on a scene shot by the imaging apparatus.The camera-setting group is a meta-data group containing settinginformation of the imaging apparatus. The lens-setting group is ameta-data group containing setting information of a lens apparatusemployed in the imaging apparatus. The dolly-setting group is ameta-data group containing setting information of a dolly apparatus alsoemployed in the imaging apparatus. In such a configuration, the metadata contained in the scene-information group can be used to functiontypically as indexes representing attributes of a shot image. The metadata contained in the camera-setting group can be used to functiontypically as information representing the picture quality or the like ofa shot image. The meta data contained in the lens-setting anddolly-setting groups can be used to function typically as informationrepresenting, among others, the movement and distance of a shootingobject appearing in a shot image.

A unique group identification may be assigned to each of the meta-datagroups added to the video signal. In such a configuration, a meta-datagroup can be identified on the basis of a group identification assignedto the group. Thus, processes to extract meta data from the video signalin meta-data group units and renew meta data added in the video signalin meta-data group units can be carried out at a high speed.

Information on the amount of data contained in a meta-data group may beappended to each of the meta-data groups added to the video signal. Insuch a configuration, prior to a process to extract or renew meta datacontained in a specific meta-data group, the amount of meta datacontained in the specific meta-data group can be grasped. Thus,processes to extract meta data from the video signal in meta-data groupunits and renew meta data added in the video signal in meta-data groupunits can be carried out at a high speed.

When at least a specific one of the meta-data groups is added to aspecific area of the video signal, pieces of dummy data may be added toother areas included in the video signal as areas allocated to theother-meta-data groups. In such a configuration, any one of the othermeta-data groups can be added later to any particular one of the areasother than the specific area by replacing the dummy data, which wasadded previously to the particular area at the same time as the specificmeta-data group added to the specific area. In this way, a plurality ofmeta-data groups can be added to the video signal with differenttimings.

The meta data may be added to the video signal by inserting the metadata into a blanking area (or a blanking period) of the video signal. Insuch a configuration, meta data can be properly added to every frame ofthe video signal.

The imaging apparatus is capable of shooting an object by varying theframe rate of a generated video signal. In such a configuration, even ifthe frame rate of a generated video signal is varied, meta data can beadded to every frame of the video signal. Thus, meta data can be welllinked to a video signal having a variable frame rate.

In addition, in order to solve the problems described above, inaccordance with another aspect of the present invention, there isprovided a meta-data addition apparatus for adding meta data related toa video signal generated by an imaging apparatus to every frame of thevideo signal.

In the configuration described above, the meta-data addition apparatusis capable of sequentially adding meta data related to a video signalgenerated in a shooting operation carried out by the imaging apparatusto every frame of the video signal concurrently with the shootingoperation. Thus, meta data can be well linked to a video signalassociated with the meta data.

The meta-data addition apparatus may pack meta data in one or moremeta-data groups intended for different purposes of utilizing the metadata and add the meta-data groups to a video signal.

The meta-data groups may include at least one of a scene-informationgroup, a camera-setting group, a lens-setting group and a dolly-settinggroup. The scene-information group is a meta-data group containinginformation on a scene shot by the imaging apparatus. The camera-settinggroup is a meta-data group containing setting information of the imagingapparatus. The lens-setting group is a meta-data group containingsetting information of a lens apparatus employed in the imagingapparatus. The dolly-setting group is a meta-data group containingsetting information of a dolly apparatus employed in the imagingapparatus.

The meta-data addition apparatus may assign a unique groupidentification to each of meta-data groups added to a video signal.

The meta-data addition apparatus may append information on the amount ofdata contained in a meta-data group to each of meta-data groups added toa video signal.

When the meta-data addition apparatus adds at least a specific one ofthe meta-data groups to a specific area of the video signal, themeta-data addition apparatus may add pieces of dummy data to other areasincluded in the video signal as areas allocated to the other-meta-datagroups.

The meta-data addition apparatus may add meta data to a video signal byinserting the meta data into a blanking area of the video signal.

In addition, in order to solve the problems described above, inaccordance with a further aspect of the present invention, there isprovided an imaging apparatus including an imaging unit for shooting anobject and generating a video signal representing the object, and ameta-data addition apparatus for adding meta data related to the videosignal to every frame of the video signal.

In the configuration described above, the imaging apparatus is capableof sequentially adding meta data related to a video signal generated ina shooting operation to every frame of the video signal while generatingthe video signal by carrying out the shooting operation. Thus, meta datacan be well linked to a video signal associated with the meta data. Itis to be noted that the meta-data addition apparatus employed in thisimaging apparatus is identical with the meta-data addition apparatusexplained previously. Thus, the description of the meta-data additionapparatus is not repeated.

The imaging unit is capable of shooting an object by varying the framerate of a generated video signal.

In addition, in order to solve the problems described above, inaccordance with a still further aspect of the present invention, thereis provided a video-signal-recording apparatus including a meta-dataaddition apparatus for adding meta data related to a video signalgenerated by an imaging apparatus to every frame of the video signal,and a recording unit for recording the video signal including theadditional meta data onto a recording medium.

In the configuration described above, the video-signal-recordingapparatus is capable of sequentially adding meta data related to a videosignal generated in a shooting operation carried out by the imagingapparatus to every frame of the video signal concurrently with theshooting operation and capable of recording the video signal includingthe additional meta data onto a recording medium sequentially. Thus,meta data can be well linked to a video signal associated with the metadata. It is to be noted that the meta-data addition apparatus employedin this video-signal-recording apparatus is identical with the meta-dataaddition apparatus explained previously. Thus, the description of themeta-data addition apparatus is not repeated.

In addition, in order to solve the problems described above, inaccordance with a still further aspect of the present invention, thereis provided a video-recording method for recording a video signalgenerated by an imaging apparatus and meta-data related to the videosignal onto a recording medium. The video signal and the meta data arerecorded onto the recording medium by adding the meta data to everyframe of the video signal.

In addition, meta data to be added to the video signal may be packed inone or more meta-data groups intended for different purposes ofutilizing the meta data.

In addition, the meta-data groups may include at least one of ascene-information group, a camera-setting group, a lens-setting groupand a dolly-setting group. The scene-information group is a meta-datagroup containing information on a scene shot by the imaging apparatus.The camera-setting group is a meta-data group containing settinginformation of the imaging apparatus. The lens-setting group is ameta-data group containing setting information of a lens apparatusemployed in the imaging apparatus. The dolly-setting group is ameta-data group containing setting information of a dolly apparatusemployed in the imaging apparatus.

A unique group identification may be assigned to each of meta-datagroups added to a video signal. In addition, information on the amountof data contained in a meta-data group may be appended to each ofmeta-data groups added to a video signal.

When at least a specific one of the meta-data groups is added to aspecific area of the video signal, pieces of dummy data may be added toother areas included in the video signal as areas allocated to theother-meta-data groups.

Meta data may be added to a video signal by inserting the meta data intoa blanking area of the video signal.

The imaging unit may be capable of shooting an object by varying theframe rate of a generated video signal.

In addition, in order to solve the problems described above, inaccordance with a still further aspect of the present invention, thereis provided a meta-data format of meta data related to a video signal.In accordance with this meta-data format, meta data is packed in aplurality of meta-data groups intended for different purposes ofutilizing the meta data and the meta-data groups are arranged in seriesin the video signal.

The meta-data groups may include at least one of a scene-informationgroup, a camera-setting group, a lens-setting group and a dolly-settinggroup. The scene-information group is a meta-data group containinginformation on a scene shot by the imaging apparatus. The camera-settinggroup is a meta-data group containing setting information of the imagingapparatus. The lens-setting group is a meta-data group containingsetting information of a lens apparatus employed in the imagingapparatus. The dolly-setting group is a meta-data group containingsetting information of a dolly apparatus employed in the imagingapparatus.

In addition, a unique group identification can be assigned to each ofmeta-data groups added to a video signal. Further, information on theamount of data contained in a meta-data group can be appended to each ofmeta-data groups added to a video signal.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a rough configuration of avideo-recording system implemented by a first embodiment;

FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of scene-informationmeta data included in a scene-information group in the first embodiment;

FIG. 3 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of camera-settingmeta data included in a camera-setting group in the first embodiment;

FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of lens-setting metadata included in a lens-setting group in the first embodiment;

FIG. 5 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of dolly-settingmeta data included in a dolly-setting group in the first embodiment;

FIGS. 6A and 6B are explanatory diagrams referred to in describing theformat of meta data used in the first embodiment;

FIG. 7 is a block diagram showing the configuration of an imagingapparatus employed in the first embodiment;

FIGS. 8A and 8B are explanatory diagrams showing a configuration of metadata added to a video signal in the first embodiment;

FIG. 9 is a block diagram showing the configuration of a camera controlunit employed in the first embodiment;

FIG. 10 is a block diagram showing the configuration of a meta-dataaddition apparatus employed in the first embodiment;

FIG. 11 is a block diagram showing the configuration of a video taperecorder employed in the first embodiment;

FIG. 12 is a block diagram showing the configuration of a meta-datasynthesis apparatus employed in the first embodiment;

FIG. 13A to 13D show timing charts used for explaining a video-recordingmethod provided by the first embodiment;

FIG. 14 is a block diagram showing a rough configuration of avideo-recording system implemented by a second embodiment;

FIG. 15 is a block diagram showing a rough configuration of avideo-recording system including a first typical modified version; and

FIG. 16 is a block diagram showing a rough configuration of avideo-recording system including a second typical modified version.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

Preferred embodiments of the present invention are explained in detailby referring to diagrams as follows. It is to be noted that, throughoutthis specification and the diagrams, configuration elements havingessentially the same functional configuration are denoted by the samereference numeral and an explanation is given only once for all suchconfiguration elements.

First Embodiment

The following description explains, among others, a video-recordingsystem implemented by a first embodiment of the present invention aswell as apparatus employed in the system, a method related to the systemand a format of meta data. The apparatus employed in the video-recordingsystem include a video-signal recording apparatus, a meta-data additionapparatus and an imaging apparatus whereas the method related to thesystem is a video-recording method.

1: System Configuration

First of all, an outline of the video-recording system implemented bythe first embodiment is explained. A typical video-recording systemimplemented by the first embodiment is a system, which is used typicallyby a TV broadcasting station and a company producing video works such asa video content, a TV program and a movie. Typically installed at ashooting site such as a shooting studio or a shooting location, thisvideo-recording system is capable of shooting and recording videocontent data of a video material composing a video work. The videocontent data is content data typically comprising video data and/oraudio data. Generally speaking, the video data is typicallymoving-picture data. However, the video data may also includestill-picture data such as a drawing, a photo and a painting.

In addition, the video-recording system is also capable of generatingvarious kinds of meta data related to a video material produced in ashooting operation. Further, the video-recording system is also capableof grouping the meta data, adding the grouped meta data to a videosignal of each of frames composing a video material and recording themeta data onto a recording medium along with the video signal. It is tobe noted that this meta data is typically high-order data representing,among others, attributes and outline of the video material or the designinformation of the shooting apparatus. The meta data is used as indexesof the video material and information for identifying shootingconditions to mention a few. Details of the meta data will be describedlater.

Next, the overall configuration of the video-recording systemimplemented by the embodiment is explained by referring to FIG. 1. It isto be noted that FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a rough configurationof the video-recording system 1 implemented by the embodiment.

As shown in FIG. 1, the video-recording system 1 implemented by theembodiment typically includes an imaging apparatus 10, a soundcollection apparatus 18, a camera control unit 20, a meta-data inputterminal 30, a meta-data addition apparatus 40, a video tape recorder50, a meta-data synthesis apparatus 60 and a display apparatus 70. Thecamera control unit 20 is abbreviated hereafter to a CCU 20 and thevideo tape recorder 50 is abbreviated hereafter to a VTR 50.

The imaging apparatus 10 is typically a video camera for converting anoptical image received by a lens apparatus 12 into an electrical signal.Thus, the imaging apparatus 10 is capable of taking the image of anobject as well as generating and outputting a video signal representingthe image. To be more specific, the imaging apparatus 10 is capable ofshooting scenes composing a video work, generating a video signalrepresenting the scenes and outputting the video signal to the CCU 20.This video signal can be generated typically by using either aprogressive method or an interlace method.

It is to be noted that, in this embodiment, the video signal istransmitted from the imaging apparatus 10 to the CCU 20 as an opticalsignal through an optical fiber cable or the like. By transmitting thevideo signal as an optical signal in this way, the video signal can betransmitted over a distance of typically 1 km, which is longer than thedistance of transmission of a signal in an HD SDI (High DefinitionSerial Digital Interface) format. Thus, the apparatus such as theimaging apparatus 10, the CCU 20 and the VTR 50 can be installed atlocations separated from each other by sufficiently long distances togive a high degree of shooting freedom. However, the configuration ofthe video-recording system 1 provided by the present invention is notlimited to this embodiment. For example, the imaging apparatus 10 maytransmit the video signal through an HD SDI cable or the like. In thiscase, the CCU 20 is not required. That is to say, the imaging apparatus10 can transmit a video signal directly to the meta-data additionapparatus 40 or another apparatus.

-   -   the imaging apparatus 10 is capable of collecting various kinds        of setting information inside the imaging apparatus 10 during        typically a shooting operation and generating camera-setting        meta data based on the setting information. The setting        information is information on shooting conditions such as a        shutter speed and a gain. Further, the imaging apparatus 10 is        also capable of packing the camera-setting meta data into a        group as a camera-setting group and adding the group to the        video signal of every frame. Details of these functions will be        described later.

Moreover, the imaging apparatus 10 is also provided typically with thelens apparatus 12 cited above and a dolly apparatus 14.

The lens apparatus 12 typically includes a plurality of lenses and adriving apparatus for adjusting, among others, distances among thelenses and diaphragms of the lenses. Thus, the lens apparatus 12 adjustsparameters such as zoom, an iris and a focus to radiate a good opticalimage to the main body of the imaging apparatus 10. The lens apparatus12 is capable of generating various kinds of setting information usedfor example in a shooting operation in the lens apparatus 12 aslens-setting meta data for every frame. The setting information isinformation on shooting conditions including the zoom, the iris and thefocus.

The dolly apparatus 14 is a cart on which the main body of the imagingapparatus 10 is mounted so as to allow the imaging apparatus 10 to bemoved. In a shooting operation requiring that the imaging apparatus 10be moved to approach or leave a shooting object or in a shootingoperation requiring that the imaging apparatus 10 be moved to follow theobject, for example, the dolly apparatus 14 is used for moving theimaging apparatus 10. Typically, a pulley provided on the bottom of thedolly apparatus 14 is mounted on a rail so that the dolly apparatus 14can be moved to follow the shooting object at a high speed for example.The dolly apparatus 14 is capable of internally generating various kindsof setting information used for example in a shooting operation asdolly-setting meta data for each frame. The setting information isinformation on shooting conditions including the position of the dollyapparatus 14 and the orientation of the camera. It is to be noted thatthe dolly apparatus 14 is not a mandatory apparatus. The dolly apparatus14 is not necessarily required for example in a configuration where theimaging apparatus 10 is installed on a crane for carrying out a shootingoperation from a position above a shooting object or the imagingapparatus 10 is carried on the shoulder of a cameraman performing ashooting operation.

The lens-setting meta data and the dolly-setting meta data, which aregenerated as described above, are supplied to the meta-data additionapparatus 40 through an RS-232C cable or the like.

The sound collection apparatus 18 is typically a microphone forgenerating an audio signal and outputting the generated signal. To putit in detail, the sound collection apparatus 18 collects audioinformation in a shooting operation carried out by using the imagingapparatus 10 and generates an audio signal representing the information.The audio information includes background sounds and voices of actors.The audio signal is output typically to the VTR 50. It is to be notedthat the sound collection apparatus 18 can also be employed as a part ofthe imaging apparatus 10.

The CCU 20 is capable of converting a video signal received from theimaging apparatus 10 through typically an optical fiber cable as anoptical signal into a signal in the HD SDI format and outputting thesignal in the HD SDI format to the meta-data addition apparatus 40through an HD SDI cable. In addition, the CCU 20 is also capable ofextracting camera-setting meta data from the video signal. Further, theCCU 20 also passes on a return video signal received from the meta-datasynthesis apparatus 60 to be described later to the imaging apparatus10. It is to be noted that the CCU 20 does not have to be provided as anapparatus separately from the imaging apparatus 10. For example, the CCU20 can also be embedded in the imaging apparatus 10. In particular, ifthe imaging apparatus 10 is designed as an apparatus for outputting avideo signal in the HD SDI format, for example, the CCU 20 is not arequired apparatus.

The meta-data input terminal 30 typically includes aninformation-processing apparatus such as a personal computer and itsperipherals. The meta-data input terminal 30 is capable of generatingscene-information meta data on the basis of inputs entered by the userto the meta-data input terminal 30. This scene-information meta data is,for example, meta data related to a scene obtained from a shootingoperation carried out by using the imaging apparatus 10. In theconventional shooting operation, the scene-information meta dataincludes information displayed on an electronic slate apparatus. Theinformation displayed on an electronic slate apparatus includes a scenenumber and a take number. When a person such as a director enters thescene number of a scene to be used as a shooting object from now on tothe meta-data input terminal 30, the meta-data input terminal 30generates scene-information meta data for the scene number and outputsthe meta data to the meta-data addition apparatus 40 through an RS-232Ccable or the like. It is to be noted that, by using the meta-data inputterminal 30, a person such as a cameraman or a director is capable ofentering information such as an additional recording-time comment for arecorded video material as meta data representing a scene situation. Anexample of the recording-time comment is a memorandum about a shootingsituation.

The meta-data addition apparatus 40 is capable of typically adding metadata to a video signal of each frame. To put it in detail, the meta-dataaddition apparatus 40 inputs typically meta data such as lens-settingmeta data, dolly-setting meta data and scene-information meta data frommeta-data sources such as the lens apparatus 12, the dolly apparatus 14and the meta-data input terminal 30 respectively. The meta-data additionapparatus 40 packs the input meta data into a plurality of meta-datagroups such as a lens-setting group, a dolly-setting group and ascene-information group, which are intended for different purposes ofutilizing the meta data. Then, the meta-data addition apparatus 40 addsthe meta data of the lens-setting group, the dolly-setting group and thescene-information group, which are obtained as a result of the packingprocess, to a video signal received from the CCU 20 by inserting themeta data typically into a blanking area of the video signal of eachframe. The meta-data addition apparatus 40 then outputs the video signalincluding all the meta data to the VTR 50 through typically an HD SDIcable.

It is to be noted that the meta-data addition apparatus 40 also receivesa reference signal (reference synchronization signal) and a time codesignal (LTC: Linear Time Code signal) from a reference-signal generationapparatus 72 and a time-code-signal generation apparatus 74,respectively. The LTC signal can also be supplied to the VTR 50.

The VTR 50 represents a video-signal recording/reproduction apparatusprovided by this embodiment. The VTR 50 is typically capable ofrecording a video signal received from the meta-data addition apparatus40 and an audio signal received from the sound collection apparatus 18onto a recording medium such as a video tape 52. In addition, the VTR 50is also typically capable of reproducing video and audio signalsrecorded on the video tape 52. Further, the VTR 50 is typically capableof outputting a video signal received from the meta-data additionapparatus 40 to the meta-data synthesis apparatus 60 as it is andoutputting a video signal reproduced from the video tape 52 to themeta-data synthesis apparatus 60.

As described above, in this embodiment, the video tape 52 is used as arecording medium. It is to be noted, however, that the configuration ofthe present invention is not limited to this embodiment. For example, itis also possible to use any one of a variety of recording mediums suchas a magnetic tape, a magnetic disk, an optical disk and a memory card.In addition, the video-signal recording/reproduction apparatus providedby this embodiment is not limited to the VTR 50. That is to say, the VTR50 can be replaced with an apparatus for these various recordingmediums. Examples of such an apparatus are a disk apparatus and avariety of readers/writers.

As described above, the meta-data synthesis apparatus 60 is typically adecoder for extracting meta data from a video signal, decoding meta dataand synthesizing meta data with a video signal. To put it in moredetail, the meta-data synthesis apparatus 60 is capable of extractingall or a portion of meta data added to a video signal of each framereceived from the VTR 50. In addition, the meta-data synthesis apparatus60 is also capable of decoding the extracted meta data into video dataand synthesizing the video data with the video signal of each frame. Thevideo data of meta data is synthesized with the video signal bysuperimposition of the video data on typically the video signal of eachframe.

The display apparatus 70 is a display apparatus of typically an LCD(Liquid Crystal Display) or CRT (Cathode Ray Tube) type. On the basis ofthe meta-data-synthesized video signal returned from the meta-datasynthesis apparatus 60, the display apparatus 70 is capable ofdisplaying an image with meta data superimposed thereon.

2: Contents of Meta Data

Next, meta data grouped in this embodiment is explained in detail. Inthis embodiment, various kinds of meta data related to a video materialas described above are packed into typically four different meta-datagroups intended for different purposes of utilizing the meta data, andthe groups are transmitted, recorded and managed. The followingdescription explains details of the contents of meta data contained ineach of the four meta-data groups.

2.1: Scene-Information Group

First of all, scene-information meta data included in ascene-information group is explained in detail by giving an exampleshown in FIG. 2. It is to be noted that FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagramshowing an example of scene-information meta data included in ascene-information group in this embodiment.

As shown in FIG. 2, the scene-information meta data included in ascene-information group includes various kinds of meta data related to ascene as meta data obtained in a shooting operation by using the imagingapparatus 10. The scene-information meta data included in ascene-information group includes main information such as a time code, ascene number and a take number, which used to be displayed typically onthe conventional electronic slate apparatus.

‘Time code’ is time information expressed in terms of hours, minutes,seconds and a frame number, which are represented by typically an LTC.Traditionally, the time code is recorded typically on an audio track ofa video tape 52 in the longitudinal direction. In this embodiment, thistime code is generated by the time-code-signal generation apparatus 74and added to typically a blanking area of a video signal of each frameby the meta-data addition apparatus 40. A time code is used foridentifying a location in the video signal. The amount of datarepresenting a time code is typically 16 bytes.

‘Date’ is text information expressing a date on which the shootingoperation is carried out. The amount of data representing a date istypically 4 bytes.

‘Video-work title’ is text information expressing the title of a videowork. The amount of data representing a video-work title is typically 30bytes.

‘Shooting-team number’ is an ID number used for identifying a shootingteam (a crew) in charge of the shooting operation. The amount of datarepresenting a shooting-team number is typically 2 bytes.

‘Scene number’ is a number used for identifying a specific one among aplurality of scenes composing a video work as a specific scene beingsubjected to a shooting operation. The amount of data representing ascene number is typically 2 bytes. By referring to this scene number, itis possible to recognize a video-work scene to which a video materialobtained from a shooting operation corresponds. It is to be noted that ascene can be further divided into fine portions each referred to as acut and a cut number can be added as scene-information meta data as anumber for identifying one of the cuts.

‘Take number’ is a number for identifying one of takes, which areconsecutive video units from a first recording start to a recording endof a recording operation carried out by using the imaging apparatus 10.The amount of data representing a take number is typically 2 bytes. Byreferring to this scene number, it is possible to recognize a takepertaining to the scene identified by the scene number as a take towhich a recorded video signal corresponds.

‘Roll number’ is a number for identifying one of rolls, which are finevideo units obtained as a result of further dividing a take. The amountof data representing a roll number is typically 2 bytes.

‘Cameraman’, ‘Director’ and ‘Producer’ are pieces of text informationexpressing respectively names of a cameraman, a director and a producerwho are persons in charge of the shooting operation. The amount of datarepresenting each of the cameraman, the director and the producer istypically 16 bytes.

As described above, the scene-information group is collected pieces ofmeta data typically including information on recorded-video attributesand information on video indexes. The scene-information meta data isinformation useful for grasping contents of a video material as wellidentifying and managing the video material at typically avideo-recording stage, a post-processing stage and an editing stage.

2.2: Camera-Setting Group

Next, camera-setting meta data included in a camera-setting group isexplained in detail by giving an example shown in FIG. 3. It is to benoted that FIG. 3 is an explanatory diagram showing an example ofcamera-setting meta data included in a camera-setting group in thisembodiment.

As shown in FIG. 3, the camera-setting meta data included in acamera-setting group includes various kinds of meta data typicallyincluding information on setting of the imaging apparatus 10 used forcarrying out a shooting operation as main meta data.

‘Camera ID’ is a serial number (or an apparatus number) used foridentifying the imaging apparatus 10 used for carrying out the shootingoperation. The amount of data representing the camera ID is typically 4bytes.

‘CHU switch ON/OFF’ is bit-information indicating whether or not thesetting of the imaging apparatus 10 has been changed from standardsetting as will be described later. The amount of data representing theCHU switch ON/OFF is typically 1 byte.

‘CCU ID’ is a serial number (or an apparatus number) used foridentifying the CCU 20 used for carrying out the shooting operation. Theamount of data representing the CCU ID is typically 4 bytes.

‘Filter setting’ is information expressing setting of filters employedin the imaging apparatus 10 used for carrying out the shootingoperation. The amount of data representing the filter setting istypically 2 bytes. In this embodiment, two filters of five differentkinds are typically employed in the imaging apparatus 10. The filtersetting indicates a combination of two filters used in the shootingoperation.

‘Shutter speed’ is information expressing a set value of the shutterspeed of the imaging apparatus 10 used for carrying out the shootingoperation. The amount of data representing the shutter speed istypically 1 byte. In this embodiment, the shutter speed can be set at avalue at any of six stages in the range 1/100 to 1/2,000 seconds.

‘Gain’ is information expressing a set value of the gain of the imagingapparatus 10 used for carrying out the shooting operation. The amount ofdata representing the gain is typically 1 byte.

‘ECS’ is information indicating whether the ECS (Extended Clear Scan)function of the imaging apparatus 10 used for carrying out the shootingoperation is in ON or OFF status. The amount of data representing theESC is typically 2 bytes.

‘Gamma (master)’ is information expressing setting of a gammacharacteristic of the imaging apparatus 10 used for carrying out theshooting operation. The amount of data representing the gamma (master)is typically 2 bytes.

‘Gamma (user setting)’ is information expressing setting of a gammacharacteristic with a gamma curve changed in accordance with usersetting. The amount of data representing the gamma (user setting) istypically 1 byte.

‘Variable frame rate’ is information expressing a frame-rate settingvalue of a video signal generated in a shooting operation carried out byusing an imaging apparatus 10 having a variable shooting speed. Theamount of data representing the variable frame rate is typically 1 byte.The imaging apparatus 10 provided by this embodiment is capable ofshooting an object at a variable frame rate in the range 23.98 to 30 P.However, the present invention is not limited to such an imagingapparatus 10. For example, it is possible to employ an imaging apparatus10 capable of shooting an object at a variable frame rate in the range 1to 60 P.

‘Video-signal white level’ is information expressing a set value of avideo signal as a value resulting from a white balance adjustmentprocess of the imaging apparatus 10 used for carrying out the shootingoperation. The amount of data representing the video-signal white levelis typically 6 bytes.

‘Video-signal black level’ is information expressing a set value of avideo signal as a value resulting from a black balance adjustmentprocess of the imaging apparatus 10 used for carrying out the shootingoperation. The amount of data representing the video-signal black levelis typically 8 bytes.

‘Detail level’ is information expressing a set value of a detail levelas a value resulting from a detail adjustment process of the imagingapparatus 10 used for carrying out the shooting operation. The amount ofdata representing the detail level is typically 2 bytes.

‘Knee point’ is information expressing a set value of a knee point of avideo signal compressed by a knee circuit employed in the imagingapparatus 10 used for carrying out the shooting operation. The amount ofdata representing the knee point is typically 2 bytes.

‘Knee slope’ is information expressing a set value of a knee slope of avideo signal compressed by a knee circuit employed in the imagingapparatus 10 used for carrying out the shooting operation. The amount ofdata representing the knee slope is typically 2 bytes.

‘Recorder status’ is information expressing a set value of a frame rateof an operation carried out by the video-signal recording/reproductionapparatus such as the VTR 50 to record a video signal. The amount ofdata representing the recorder status is typically 1 byte. The recorderstatus is set in accordance with the variable frame rate describedabove.

As described above, the camera-setting group is collected pieces of metadata typically including information on shooting conditions such assetting information of an imaging apparatus 10 used for carrying out theshooting operation. The camera-setting meta data is information usefulfor grasping a picture quality of a video material typically at apost-processing stage of the video material. The picture quality of avideo material includes the brightness, tint and texture of the videomaterial to mention a few.

2.3: Lens-Setting Group

Next, lens-setting meta data included in a lens-setting group isexplained in detail by giving an example shown in FIG. 4. It is to benoted that FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram showing an example oflens-setting meta data included in a lens-setting group in thisembodiment.

As shown in FIG. 4, the lens-setting meta data included in alens-setting group includes various kinds of meta data typicallyincluding information on setting of the lens apparatus 12 used forcarrying out a shooting operation as main meta data.

‘Zoom’ is information expressing a zoom-setting value obtained as aresult of a shooting magnification adjustment process of the lensapparatus 12 used for carrying out the shooting operation. The amount ofdata representing the zoom is typically 2 bytes.

‘Focus’ is information expressing a focus setting value set in afocus-distance adjustment process of the lens apparatus 12 used forcarrying out the shooting operation. The amount of data representing thefocus is typically 2 bytes.

‘Iris’ is information expressing an iris (diaphragm)-setting valueobtained as a result of an exposure adjustment process of the lensapparatus 12 used for carrying out the shooting operation. The amount ofdata representing the iris is typically 2 bytes.

‘Lens ID’ is a serial number (or an apparatus number) used foridentifying the lens apparatus 12 used for carrying out the shootingoperation. The amount of data representing the lens ID is typically 4bytes.

As described above, the lens-setting group is collected pieces of metadata typically including information on shooting conditions such assetting information of the lens apparatus 12 used for carrying out theshooting operation. The lens-setting meta data is information useful forgrasping information such as the movement of a shooting object and thedistance from the imaging apparatus 10 from a video material typicallyat a post-processing stage of the video material.

2.4: Dolly-Setting Group

Next, dolly-setting meta data included in a dolly-setting group isexplained in detail by giving an example shown in FIG. 5. It is to benoted that FIG. 5 is an explanatory diagram showing an example ofdolly-setting meta data included in a dolly-setting group in thisembodiment.

As shown in FIG. 5, the dolly-setting meta data included in adolly-setting group includes various kinds of meta data typicallyincluding information on setting of the dolly apparatus 14 used forcarrying out a shooting operation as main meta data.

‘GPS’ is GPS (Global Positioning System) information including alatitude and a longitude, which are used for determining the position ofthe dolly apparatus 14 used in the shooting operation, that is, theposition of the imaging apparatus 10 used in the shooting operation. Theamount of data representing the GPS is typically 12 bytes.

‘Movement direction’ is information expressing the direction of amovement of the dolly apparatus 14 used for carrying out the shootingoperation, that is, the direction of a movement of the imaging apparatus10 used for carrying out the shooting operation in terms of an angle.The amount of data representing the movement direction is typically 4bytes.

‘Movement speed’ is information expressing the speed of a movement ofthe dolly apparatus 14 used for carrying out the shooting operation,that is, the speed of a movement of the imaging apparatus 10 used forcarrying out the shooting operation. The amount of data representing themovement speed is typically 4 bytes.

‘Camera direction’ is information expressing the shooting direction ofthe imaging apparatus 10. The information expresses the shootingdirection of the imaging apparatus 10 in terms of an angle of rotation(head-shaking angle) of the imaging apparatus 10 with the fixed dollyapparatus 14 taken as a reference. To put it concretely, the shootingdirection of the imaging apparatus 10 is expressed in terms of threeangles of rotation in three directions, i.e., a pan (an angle ofrotation in the Z-axis direction), a tilt (an angle of rotation in theY-axis direction) and a roll (an angle of rotation in the X-axisdirection). The amount of data representing each of the three angles ofrotation is typically 2 bytes.

‘Dolly height’ is information expressing the height of the dollyapparatus 14. The amount of data representing the dolly height istypically 2 bytes. This information is used for determining the positionof the imaging apparatus 10 in the vertical direction.

‘Dolly ID’ is a serial number (or an apparatus number) used foridentifying the dolly apparatus 14 used for carrying out the shootingoperation. The amount of data representing the dolly ID is typically 4bytes.

As described above, the dolly-setting group is collected pieces of metadata typically including information on shooting conditions such assetting information of the dolly apparatus 14 used for carrying out theshooting operation. The setting information of the dolly apparatus 14includes the movement and position of the dolly apparatus 14. Much likethe lens-setting meta data, the dolly-setting meta data is informationuseful for grasping information such as the movement of a shootingobject appearing in the video material and the distance of the objecttypically at a post-processing stage of the video material.

The meta data of the four typical meta-data groups provided by thisembodiment has been described above. By packing the meta data intogroups as described above, only a proper group of necessary meta datacan be extracted, utilized, replaced or subjected to another process independence on the purpose of utilization of the meta data.

At a stage of recording video data, for example, for the purpose ofidentifying or grasping the video data being recorded or completing arecording process, meta data of a scene-information group including ascene number and a time code is extracted and utilized. In addition, atthe post-processing stage of a video material, the meta data of thecamera-setting, lens-setting and dolly-setting groups is utilizedtypically in a process to synthesize an actual image with a CG image. Toput it concretely, for a typical purpose of grasping the picture qualityof the video material, the meta data of the camera-setting group isextracted and utilized. In addition, for a typical purpose of graspingthe movement of a shooting object in the video material, the meta dataof the lens-setting and dolly-setting groups is extracted and utilized.

It is to be noted that the lens-setting and dolly-setting groups share acommon purpose of utilizing their meta data. Thus, instead of separatingthe lens-setting and dolly-setting groups from each other as is the casewith this embodiment, a single lens/dolly-setting group can be createdto contain both the lens-setting meta data and the dolly-setting metadata.

3: Format of Meta Data

Next, the format of meta data is explained by referring to FIGS. 6A and6B. It is to be noted that FIGS. 6A and 6B are explanatory diagramsreferred to in describing the format of meta data used in thisembodiment.

As described above, meta data used in this embodiment is packed in fourdifferent meta-data groups. The groups of meta data are added in apredetermined format to a video signal of each frame in apparatus suchas the imaging apparatus 10 and the meta-data addition apparatus 40.

To put it detail, as shown in FIG. 6A, the meta data is insertedtypically into an ancillary data area inside a vertical blanking area ofa video signal of each frame as packaged ancillary data. FIG. 6B is adiagram showing a format of the packaged meta data as a format adoptedtypically at a transmission time.

As shown in FIG. 6B, meta data is packed into typically four differentgroups, i.e., a scene-information group, a camera-setting group, alens-setting group and a dolly-setting group. The four meta-data groupsare arranged consecutively to form a format of a series of the groups.The meta-data groups are subjected to a KLV (Key Length Value) encodingprocess conforming to SMPTE (Society of Motion Picture and TelevisionEngineers) standards (SMPTE 291M and the like).

K (Key) is a reserved word serving as a key ID added to typically thehead of each of the meta-data groups. The key ID has a length oftypically 1 byte. Provided as a group identification in this embodiment,this K code functions as a code for identifying the meta-data groupcontaining this K code. In any frame of a video signal, for example, theK code added to a scene-information group always has a value of 01, theK code added to a camera-setting group always has a value of 02, the Kcode added to a lens-setting group always has a value of 03 and the Kcode added to a dolly-setting group always has a value of 04. In thisway, a group identification unique to each of the meta-data groups canbe added to the meta-data group uniformly for all frames. Thus, only aspecific meta-data group can be extracted with ease on the basis of thegroup identification from a plurality of meta-data groups for eachframe.

L (Length) is an added length code typically following the K code. The Lcode has a typical size of 1 byte. Provided as information on the amountof data in this embodiment, this L code functions as a code showing theamount of data included in the meta-data group following the code. Forexample, assume that the L code added to a scene-information group in aframe is 124. In this case, the amount of data included in thescene-information group in the frame is 124 bytes. By adding the L codeindicating the amount of data as information in front of the contents ofa meta-data group in this way, the processing efficiency of a process toextract or replace the meta data of the group can be increased. That isto say, by referring to the L code serving as information on the amountof data, apparatus such as the meta-data addition apparatus 40 and theVTR 50 are capable of grasping the amount of the meta data contained inthe meta-data group including the L code in advance as meta data to beextracted or replaced. Thus, the processing efficiency of a process toextract or replace the meta data of the group can be increased.

‘Element’ is a user data area used for actually storing the meta data ofa group. Also referred to as a value area, ‘Element’ has a variablelength.

In addition, in front of the meta-data groups completing the KLVencoding process as described above, additional flags used for definingand identifying the type of meta data being transmitted are provided.The additional flags are an ancillary data flag, a DID (DataIdentification), an SDID (Secondary Data Identification) and a DC (DataCounter). On the other hand, codes are also added after the meta-datagroups completing the KLV encoding process. The codes include a CRC(Cyclic Redundancy Check) code and a ‘CHECK SUM’.

By the way, in accordance with the SMPTE standards, meta data thatcompletes a KLV encoding process and is inserted into the ancillary dataarea of a video signal must be packed into an ancillary-data packet witha size not exceeding 255 bytes. Thus, the format of meta data used inthis embodiment must conform to this standard. That is to say, the totalsize of grouped meta data must be adjusted not to exceed 255 bytes. Toput it concretely, for example, the total size of grouped meta data isadjusted so that the amount of meta data in the scene-information groupdoes not exceed a typical value of 124 bytes, the amount of meta data inthe camera-setting group does not exceed a typical value of 40 bytes,the amount of meta data in the lens-setting group does not exceed atypical value of 10 bytes and the amount of meta data in thedolly-setting group does not exceed a typical value of 52 bytes. Thus,the size of a packet of ancillary data can be set at a typical value notexceeding 226 bytes, which are the total amount of the meta data.

In this way, the format of meta data used in this embodiment is set sothat all the meta data can be accommodated in one ancillary-data packethaving a size of 255 bytes. However, the configuration of the presentinvention is not limited to this scheme. For example, meta data can bedivided into a plurality of ancillary-data packets, which are linked toeach other to create a package.

As described above, in accordance with the format of meta data used inthis embodiment, there is provided a configuration in which an areaallocated to meta data is divided typically into as many sub-areas asmeta-data groups and meta data of the meta-data groups are inserted intothe sub-areas allocated to the meta-data groups. In addition, groupidentification information and data amount information are added to thehead of each of the meta-data groups. With such a configuration, only ameta-data group including meta data required for the purpose ofutilizing the meta data can be detected and extracted or replacedspeedily as well as easily. For example, by letting the groupidentification information be shared by recording and editingdepartments as a common ID, the meta data can be well utilized in aprocess of producing a video work.

4: Apparatus Configurations

Next, configurations of main apparatus composing the video-recordingsystem 1 described above are explained in detail.

4.1: Imaging Apparatus

First of all, the imaging apparatus 10 employed in this embodiment isdescribed in detail by referring to FIG. 7. It is to be noted that FIG.7 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the imaging apparatus10 employed in this embodiment.

As shown in FIG. 7, the imaging apparatus 10 typically includes a CPU100, a memory unit 102, an imaging unit 104, a signal-processing unit106, a display unit 108, a camera-setting meta-data generation unit 110,a meta-data addition unit 112, a transmission/reception unit 114, thelens apparatus 12 and the dolly apparatus 14.

The CPU (Central Processing Unit) 100 functions as a processor as wellas a controller and is thus capable of controlling operations carriedout by the other components composing the imaging apparatus 10. Thememory unit 102 can be any kind of storage unit such as a RAM, a ROM, aflash memory or a hard disk. The memory unit 102 is used for permanentlyor temporarily storing, among other information, various kinds of datarelated to processing carried out by the CPU 100 and operation programsexecuted by the CPU 100.

The imaging unit 104 typically has an OHB (Optical Head Base)configuration and is provided with a function to take an image of ashooting object and generate an image signal representing the takenimage. To put it in detail, the imaging unit 104 generates an R, G and Bspectrum of an optical image received from the lens apparatus 12typically by using a prism, which is not shown in the figure. Then, thespectrum passes through a variety of filters also not shown in thefigure before being converted into an analog electrical signal servingas a video signal in an opto-electrical conversion process carried outat a predetermined shutter speed by an imaging device such as a CCD(Charge Coupled Device)., which is also not shown in the figure.

The signal-processing unit 106 is capable of converting the weak analogelectrical signal received from the imaging unit 104 as a video signalinto a digital video signal by carrying out a variety of processesincluding an automatic gain control (AGC) process, a correlation doublesampling process, an A/D conversion process, an error correctionprocess, a white-balance adjustment process, a dynamic range compressionprocess, a gamma correction process, a shading correction process, adetail adjustment process and a knee process. It is to be noted thatthis embodiment has a configuration for generating and outputtingtypically an. HD (High Definition) digital video signal. In addition,the signal-processing unit 106 is also capable of converting the digitalvideo signal into an analog video signal by carrying out adigital-to-analog conversion process, and outputting the analog videosignal to the display unit 108. Further, the signal-processing unit 106is also capable of changing the frame rate of the output video signal toa value in the range 23.98 to 30 P typically on the basis of conditionsset in advance or in accordance with an input operation carried out bythe cameraman.

The display unit 108 is typically a view finder used by the cameraman toview a shooting object. The display unit 108 is a CRT monitor or thelike. The display unit 108 is capable of outputting and displaying ananalog video signal typically received from the signal-processing unit106. It is to be noted that the display unit 108 can also be any otherkind of display unit such as an LCD monitor or the like.

The camera-setting meta-data generation unit 110 acquires and managesparameters such as setting information of the imaging unit 104, settinginformation of signal processing including gamma, knee and detailprocesses carried out by the signal-processing unit 106. In addition,the camera-setting meta-data generation unit 110 generates thecamera-setting meta data typically for each frame represented by a videosignal on the basis of the parameters, and outputs the camera-settingmeta data to the meta-data addition unit 112.

The meta-data addition unit 112 has the same configuration as themeta-data addition apparatus 40 provided by this embodiment. Themeta-data addition unit 112 is capable of adding camera-setting metadata to a video signal of each frame typically in synchronization to atiming with which the video signal is output to a destination outsidethe imaging apparatus 10. To put it concretely, the meta-data additionunit 112 carries out a KLV encoding process on camera-setting meta datareceived typically from the camera-setting meta-data generation unit 110to generate a package of the meta data. Then, the meta-data additionunit 112 inserts the packed camera-setting meta data into an areaincluded in a video signal of each frame as an area allocated to thecamera-setting meta data sequentially one frame after another as shownin FIG. 8A. The area allocated to the camera-setting meta data is a partof the blanking area of the video signal.

In the process of inserting the camera-setting meta data into such anarea, the meta-data addition unit 112 is capable of inserting typicallydummy data in groups other than the camera-setting group as shown inFIG. 8A. The groups other than the camera-setting group are thescene-information group, the lens-setting group and the dolly-settinggroup.

It is to be noted that the camera-setting meta-data generation unit 110and the meta-data addition unit 112, which have processing functionsdescribed above, can each have a configuration implemented typically byhardware or software for implementing the functions. In the case of aconfiguration implemented by software, programs of the software arestored in the memory unit 102 to be executed by the CPU 100 to carry outactual processing.

The transmission/reception unit 114 typically transmits a video signalwith camera-setting meta data added thereto as described above to theCCU 20 through an optical fiber cable. In addition, thetransmission/reception unit 114 receives a meta-data-synthesized videosignal from the meta-data synthesis apparatus 60 as the aforementionedreturn video signal. The transmission/reception unit 114 passes on themeta-data-synthesized video signal to the signal-processing unit 106.The signal-processing unit 106 typically converts themeta-data-synthesized video signal into an analog video signal bycarrying out a digital-to-analog conversion process, and outputs theanalog video signal to the display unit 108. As a result, the displayunit 108 is capable of displaying an image with meta data superimposedthereon.

The lens apparatus 12 typically includes an optical block 122, adriving-system block 124 and a lens-setting meta-data generation unit126.

The optical block 122 typically includes a plurality of lenses and aplurality of diaphragms. The optical block 122 is capable of supplyingan optical image of a shooting object to the imaging unit 104. Thedriving-system block 124 is capable of controlling typically the zoom,the iris and the focus to mention a few by adjustment of parameters suchas the distances between lenses and the diaphragms in the optical block122.

The lens-setting meta-data generation unit 126 typically acquires andmanages parameters such as lens-setting information of thedriving-system block 124. In addition, the lens-setting meta-datageneration unit 126 generates lens-setting meta data typically for eachframe on the basis of the parameters. The lens-setting meta-datageneration unit 126 outputs the lens-setting meta data generated in thisway to the meta-data addition apparatus 40 typically through an RS-232Ccable.

The dolly apparatus 14 typically includes a measurement unit 142 and adolly-setting meta-data generation unit 144.

The measurement unit 142 measures various kinds of setting informationrelated to the dolly apparatus 14 and outputs the information to thedolly-setting meta-data generation unit 144. The setting informationtypically includes GPS information, the movement speed and movementdirection of the dolly apparatus 14 and the angles of the imagingapparatus 10.

The dolly-setting meta-data generation unit 144 generates thedolly-setting meta data described above typically for each frame, forexample, on the basis of the measured information received from themeasurement unit 142. The dolly-setting meta-data generation unit 144outputs the dolly-setting meta data generated in this way to themeta-data addition apparatus 40 typically through an RS-232C cable.

4.2: Camera Control Unit

Next, the CCU 20 provided by this embodiment is explained in detail byreferring to FIG. 9. It is to be noted that FIG. 9 is a block diagramshowing the configuration of the CCU 20 employed in this embodiment.

As shown in FIG. 9, the CCU 20 typically includes a CPU 200, a memoryunit 202, a transmission/reception unit 204, a signal-processing unit206 and a serializer 208.

The CPU 200 functions as a processor as well as a controller and is thuscapable of controlling operations carried out by the other componentscomposing the CCU 20. The CPU 200 receives a reference signal, whichallows synchronization with other apparatus employed in thevideo-recording system 1 to be established. The memory unit 202 can beany kind of storage unit such as a RAM, a ROM, a flash memory or a harddisk. The memory unit 202 is used for permanently or temporarilystoring, among other information, various kinds of data related toprocessing carried out by the CPU 200 and operation programs executed bythe CPU 200.

The transmission/reception unit 204 typically receives a video signalwith camera-setting meta data added thereto from the imaging apparatus10 and passes on the received video signal to the signal-processing unit206.

The signal-processing unit 206 typically carries out a process toconvert a video signal received as an optical signal into an HD SDIsignal and outputs the HD SDI signal to the serializer 208. It is to benoted that the signal-processing unit 206 can also have a configurationincluding the processing functions of the signal-processing unit 106employed in the imaging apparatus 10.

The serializer 208 converts a parallel video signal received typicallyfrom the signal-processing unit 206 into a serial video signal bycarrying out a parallel-to-serial conversion process, and transmits theserial video signal to the meta-data addition apparatus 40 through an HDSDI cable. It is to be noted that, as shown in FIG. 8A, actualcamera-setting meta data has been inserted into typically only an areaincluded in the blanking area of the video signal output by the CCU 20as an area allocated to the camera-setting meta data. On the other hand,dummy data has been inserted into areas other than the area allocated tothe camera-setting meta data. These other areas in the blanking area areallocated to the other meta-data groups.

4.3: Meta-Data Addition Apparatus

Next, the meta-data addition apparatus 40 provided by this embodiment isexplained in detail by referring to FIG. 10. It is to be noted that FIG.10 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the meta-dataaddition apparatus 40 employed in this embodiment.

As shown in FIG. 10, the meta-data addition apparatus 40 typicallyincludes a CPU 400, a memory unit 402, a meta-data-packing unit 404, ameta-data encoder 406, a deserializer 408, a meta-data insertion unit410 and a serializer 412.

The CPU 400 functions as a processor as well as a controller and is thuscapable of controlling operations carried out by the other componentscomposing the meta-data addition apparatus 40. The CPU 400 receives areference signal, which allows synchronization with other apparatusemployed in the video-recording system 1 to be established. In addition,the CPU 400 also receives a time-code signal (LTC) and is capable ofgenerating time-code information as one kind of scene-information metadata on the basis of the time-code signal LTC and storing the time-codeinformation in the memory unit 402. Further, the CPU 400 is also capableof passing on the time-code signal LTC to the VTR 50.

The memory unit 402 can be any kind of storage unit such as a RAM, aROM, a flash memory or a hard disk. The memory unit 402 is used forpermanently or temporarily storing, among other information, variouskinds of data related to processing carried out by the CPU 400 andoperation programs executed by the CPU 400. In addition, the memory unit402 has a meta-data buffer memory 403 for temporarily storing meta datatransmitted typically from other apparatus.

To be more specific, the meta data stored in the meta-data buffer memory403 typically includes lens-setting meta data sequentially received fromthe lens apparatus 12 after the start of a shooting operation,dolly-setting meta data sequentially received from the dolly apparatus14 after the start of a shooting operation, scene-information meta datareceived in advance from the meta-data input terminal 30 prior to thestart of a shooting operation and time-code information received fromthe CPU 400.

The meta-data-packing unit 404 typically selects required meta dataamong various kinds of meta data stored in the meta-data buffer memory403, extracts the selected meta data, packs the extracted meta data in aplurality of different meta-data groups intended for different purposesof utilizing the meta data and puts the meta-data groups in a KLVstructure described earlier. The meta-data groups are the lens-settinggroup, the dolly-setting group and the scene-information group. Themeta-data-packing unit 404 then outputs the meta-data groups packed intoa KLV structure to the meta-data encoder 406.

The meta-data encoder 406 encodes meta data received from themeta-data-packing unit 404. Meta data supplied to the meta-data additionapparatus 40 as described above is typically data of an RS-232C protocolformat. For this reason, the meta-data encoder 406 encodes the meta databy changing the format of the meta data to typically an ancillary datapacket format so that the meta data can be inserted into a video signalhaving an HD SDI format (refer to FIGS. 6A and 6B). As a result of thisencoding process, for example, a variety of flags is added to the headof the meta data whereas codes such as the CRC are added to the tail ofthe meta data as described earlier.

The deserializer 408 converts a serial video signal received from theCCU 20 into a parallel video signal by carrying out a serial-to-parallelconversion process, and outputs the parallel video signal to themeta-data insertion unit 410.

The meta-data insertion unit 410 sequentially inserts the meta datareceived from the meta-data encoder 406 into the blanking area of thevideo signal of each frame received from the deserializer 408.

When the meta-data insertion unit 410 inserts the meta data,camera-setting meta data included in a camera-setting group has beentypically inserted in advance by the imaging apparatus 10 into an areaincluded in the blanking area of the video signal received by themeta-data insertion unit 410 as an area allocated to the camera-settinggroup as shown in FIG. 8A.

On the other hand, dummy data has been inserted into areas other thanthe area allocated to the camera-setting meta data. These other areas inthe blanking area are allocated to the other meta-data groups, i.e., thescene-information group, the lens-setting group and the dolly-settinggroup. Thus, the meta-data insertion unit 410 replaces the dummy dataalready stored in the area allocated to the scene-information group withfor example the actual scene-information meta data, the dummy dataalready stored in the area allocated to the lens-setting group with forexample the actual lens-setting meta data and the dummy data alreadystored in the area allocated to the dolly-setting group with for examplethe actual dolly-setting meta data as shown in FIG. 8B in order toinsert the meta data into the video signal. In the process to replacethe dummy data with the meta data as described above, the meta-datainsertion unit 410 detects each of the areas allocated to thescene-information group, the lens-setting group and the dolly-settinggroup typically on the basis of the group identification information Kand the data amount information L, which have been appended to each ofthe scene-information group, the lens-setting group and thedolly-setting group, and inserts the correct meta data into each of thedetected areas. In this way, the group identification information K andthe data amount information L allow the process to replace the dummydata with the meta data to be carried out with a high degree ofefficiency. In addition, the meta-data insertion unit 410 is typicallycapable of adjusting the phase of the delay time between the insertedmeta data and the video signal in the process to replace the dummy datawith the meta data as described above.

The serializer 412 converts the parallel video signal includingadditional meta data inserted by the meta-data insertion unit 410 intoeach frame thereof as described above into a serial video signal bycarrying out a parallel-to-serial conversion process, and transmits theserial video signal to the VTR 50.

As described above, the meta-data addition apparatus 40 provided by thisembodiment is typically capable of additionally appendingscene-information meta data, lens-setting meta data and dolly-settingmeta data to a video signal already including camera-setting meta dataadded thereto from the beginning.

4.4: Video Tape Recorder

Next, the VTR 50 provided by this embodiment is explained in detail byreferring to FIG. 11. It is to be noted that FIG. 11 is a block diagramshowing the configuration of the VTR 50 employed in this embodiment.

As shown in FIG. 11., the VTR 50 typically includes a CPU 500, a memoryunit 502, a deserializer 504, a signal-processing unit 506, a meta-datadecoder 508, a recording/reproduction block 510, an ECC block 512, ameta-data decoder 514 and a serializer 516.

The CPU 500 functions as a processor as well as a controller and is thuscapable of controlling operations carried out by the other componentscomposing the VTR 50. The CPU 500 receives a time code (LTC) signal. Thememory unit 502 can be any kind of storage unit such as a RAM, a ROM, aflash memory or a hard disk. The memory unit 502 is used for permanentlyor temporarily storing, among other information, various kinds of datarelated to processing carried out by the CPU 500 and operation programsexecuted by the CPU 500.

The deserializer 504 converts a serial video signal received from themeta-data addition apparatus 40 into a parallel video signal by carryingout a serial-to-parallel conversion process, and outputs the parallelvideo signal to the signal-processing unit 506.

The signal-processing unit 506 is capable of carrying out a variety ofprocesses on a video signal typically in order to well reproduce thevideo signal from the video tape 52 and record the signal onto the videotape 52. For example, if necessary, the signal-processing unit 506 iscapable of carrying out processes to compress and decompress a videosignal by adoption an MPEG1 (Moving Picture Experts Group phase 1)method, an MPEG2 method, an MPEG4 method or a DCT (Discrete CosineTransform) method. In addition, the signal-processing unit 506 is alsocapable of typically adjusting the recording/reproduction timing of thevideo signal and separating video and audio signals from each otherbefore adding an ECC (Error-Correcting Code). On the top of that, thesignal-processing unit 506 is typically capable of extracting meta dataadded to a video signal of each frame and, reversely, inserting decodedmeta data into a video signal of each frame.

The signal-processing unit 506 is also typically capable of outputting avideo signal received from the meta-data addition apparatus 40 to themeta-data decoder 514 as it is or a video signal reproduced from thevideo tape 52 to the meta-data decoder 514.

The meta-data decoder 508 typically decodes meta data extracted from avideo signal. To put it concretely, the meta-data decoder 508 eliminatestypically flags such as the Flag, DID and SDID flags and codes such as aCRC from meta data and outputs the meta data to the CPU 500. This isbecause the eliminated flags are not required in a recording operation.The CPU 500 typically adds an ECC to the meta data much like a videosignal and outputs the meta data to the recording/reproduction block510.

The recording/reproduction block 510 typically includes a video head anda driving mechanism, which are not shown in the figure. Therecording/reproduction block 510 is capable of actually recording andreproducing a video signal including additional meta data onto and fromthe video tape 52. To put it in detail, the recording/reproduction block510 is capable of typically setting a video signal, an audio signal andmeta data in a frame and recording the frames into a recording area ofthe video tape 52 sequentially one frame after another. Therecording/reproduction block 510 is also capable of typically treating avideo signal, an audio signal and meta data, which are already recordedin a recording area of the video tape 52, as a frame and reproducing theframes from the recording area sequentially one frame after another.

The ECC block 512 typically detects errors of a video signal or thelike, which is reproduced by the recording/reproduction block 510 fromthe video tape 52, on the basis of an ECC added to the signal. Aftererrors are detected, the ECC block 512 typically outputs the reproducedmeta data to the CPU 500 and the reproduced video and audio signals tothe signal-processing unit 506.

The meta-data decoder 514 encodes the reproduced meta data into datawith a format for transmission by adding the flags described above andcodes such as a CRC to the meta data, and outputs the encoded data tothe signal-processing unit 506. The signal-processing unit 506 typicallycombines the video and audio signals received from the ECC block 512with the meta data encoded by the meta-data decoder 514, outputting acombined signal to the serializer 516.

The serializer 516 converts the parallel video and audio signals and themeta data, which are received from the signal-processing unit 506, intoa serial signal by carrying out a parallel-to-serial conversion process,and transmits the serial signal to the meta-data synthesis apparatus 60.

It is to be noted that, as described above, components including thesignal-processing unit 506, the meta-data decoder 508, the CPU 500 andthe recording/reproduction block 510 compose the recording unit of thisembodiment. This recording unit is capable of recording a video signalincluding additional meta data onto a recording medium.

4.5: Meta-Data Synthesis Apparatus

Next, the meta-data synthesis apparatus 60 provided by this embodimentis explained in detail by referring to FIG. 12. It is to be noted thatFIG. 12 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the meta-datasynthesis apparatus 60 employed in this embodiment.

As shown in FIG. 12, the meta-data synthesis apparatus 60 typicallycomprises a CPU 600, a memory unit 602, a deserializer 604, a meta-dataextraction unit 606, a meta-data decoder 608, a meta-data videogeneration unit 610, a meta-data video synthesis unit 612 and aserializer 614.

The CPU 600 functions as a processor as well as a controller and is thuscapable of controlling operations carried out by the other componentscomposing the meta-data synthesis apparatus 60. The memory unit 602 canbe any kind of storage unit such as a RAM, a ROM, a flash memory or ahard disk. The memory unit 602 is used for permanently or temporarilystoring, among other information, various kinds of data related toprocessing carried out by the CPU 600 and operation programs executed bythe CPU 600.

The deserializer 604 converts a serial video signal received from theVTR 50 into a parallel video signal by carrying out a serial-to-parallelconversion process, and outputs the parallel video signal to themeta-data extraction unit 606.

The meta-data extraction unit 606 extracts meta data typically alreadyinserted into the blanking area of a video signal of each frame. At thattime, the meta-data extraction unit 606 does not extract all the metadata already inserted into the blanking area, but can typically extractonly data included a particular meta-data group such as ascene-information group or only specific information of the dataincluded in the particular meta-data group. Examples of the specificinformation are a time code, a scene number and a take number. It is tobe noted that, in the process to extract meta data, the meta-dataextraction unit 606 detects each of the areas allocated to the meta-datagroups typically on the basis of the group identification information Kand the data amount information L, which have been appended to each ofthe meta-data groups, and then extracts the meta data from the correctdetected area. In this way, the group identification information K andthe data amount information L allow the process to extract required metadata to be carried out with a high degree of efficiency.

While the meta-data extraction unit 606 outputs the meta data extractedas described above to typically the meta-data decoder 608, the meta-dataextraction unit 606 outputs a video signal to the meta-data videosynthesis unit 612 as it is.

The meta-data decoder 608 typically decodes meta data received from themeta-data extraction unit 606 and outputs the decoded meta data to themeta-data video generation unit 610.

The meta-data video generation unit 610 is capable of typically changingthe meta data received from the meta-data decoder 608 to video data forsuperimposition. That is to say, since the meta data decoded by themeta-data decoder 608 is meta data having typically a text-data format,the meta-data video generation unit 610 converts this meta data intodata having a video-data format.

The meta-data video synthesis unit 612 is typically capable ofsynthesizing video data obtained as a result of a conversion processcarried out by the meta-data video generation unit 610 with a videosignal received from the meta-data extraction unit 606 for each framesequentially from one frame to another. In other words, the meta-datavideo synthesis unit 612 is capable of typically multiplexing the videodata resulting from conversion of meta data in the video signal of eachframe by superimposing the video data on the frame. In this way, themeta-data video synthesis unit 612 extracts meta data from a videosignal as an image and synthesizes the image with the video signal togenerate a meta data-synthesized video signal.

The serializer 614 converts typically a parallel meta data-synthesizedvideo signal received from the meta-data image synthesis unit 612 into aserial signal by carrying out a parallel-to-serial conversion processand transmits the serial signal to the display apparatus 70.

As described above, the meta-data synthesis apparatus 60 is capable offetching meta data inserted typically into the blanking area of a videosignal, which is being generated from a shooting operation carried outby the imaging apparatus 10, or a video signal reproduced by the VTR 50from the blanking area and synthesizing the meta data as video data withthe video signal by superimposition. As a result, the display apparatus70 is capable of displaying an image with meta data superimposed thereonon the basis of the meta data-synthesized video signal received from themeta-data synthesis apparatus 60.

Thus, a person such as the director is capable of inspecting for examplean image being recorded by the imaging apparatus 10 or an imagereproduced by the VTR 50 after being recorded in addition to the metadata related to the image. As a result, if information such as a timecode, a scene number and a take number is displayed by superimpositionof the information on an image, a person such as the director is capableof identifying and confirming information related to the image such asthe scene, the take and the time of the image with ease while viewingthe image.

5: Video-Recording Method

Next, a video-recording method provided by this embodiment implementingthe video-recording system 1 is explained by referring to FIG. 13. It isto be noted that FIG. 13 shows timing charts used for explaining thevideo-recording method provided by this embodiment.

As shown in FIG. 13A, when a shooting operation is started, first ofall, live images are supplied sequentially to the imaging apparatus 10.Then, the imaging apparatus 10 generates a video signal in consecutiveframe units such as frame 0, frame 1, frame 2 and so on. At that time,typically, a CCD of the imaging apparatus 10 scans taken imagestypically by adopting the progressive method. For this reason, the videosignal output by the imaging apparatus 10 lags behind live images inputto the imaging apparatus 10 by typically one frame. As a result, theoutput of the CCU 20 also lags behind the live images by typically oneframe as shown in FIG. 13B.

In addition, at about the same time as the generation of the videosignal, the imaging apparatus 10 also generates camera-setting meta datafor each frame and inserts the camera-setting meta data into theblanking area of the video signal of each frame as shown in FIG. 13B. Inthis way, while being used for carrying out a shooting operation togenerate a video signal, the imaging apparatus 10 is capable of addingmeta data of a camera-setting group for the video signal to the videosignal of each frame.

In addition, concurrently with a shooting operation carried out by usingsuch an imaging apparatus 10, the lens apparatus 12 and the dollyapparatus 14 collect setting information for the shooting operation forgenerating lens-setting meta data and dolly-setting meta data fortypically each frame, and outputs the pieces of lens-setting meta dataand dolly-setting meta data sequentially to the meta-data additionapparatus 40.

In addition, the CCU 20 sequentially receives the video signal generatedby the imaging apparatus 10 with camera-setting meta data added theretofor each frame. The CCU 20 passes on sequentially the video signals tothe meta-data addition apparatus 40 as shown in FIG. 13B.

Then, receiving the video signal from the CCU 20, the meta-data additionapparatus 40 inserts typically scene-information meta data, lens-settingmeta data and dolly-setting meta data sequentially to the blanking areaof the video data of each frame as shown in FIG. 13C. In addition, themeta-data addition apparatus 40 adds time-code information to the videosignal of each frame as a piece of scene-information meta data. In thisway, the meta-data addition apparatus 40 is capable of adding groupedmeta data in accordance with the purpose of utilizing the meta data tothe video signal of each frame concurrently with the shooting operationcarried out by using the imaging apparatus 10.

Then, the VTR 50 sequentially receives a video signal includingadditional meta data typically from the meta-data addition apparatus 40as shown in FIG. 13D and an audio signal from the sound collectionapparatus 18. The audio data is once stored typically in the memory unit502 to establish synchronization with the video signal, which lagsbehind the live images. After decoding the meta data included in thevideo signal, the VTR 50 records the meta data along with the videosignal and the synchronized audio signal onto the video tape 52 in frameunits.

As described above, in accordance with the video-recording methodprovided by this embodiment, for example, while a shooting operation isbeing carried out by using the imaging apparatus 10, various kinds ofmeta data can be generated, grouped and added to a video signalgenerated by the shooting operation for each frame represented by thevideo signal before being recorded onto a recording medium.

Second Embodiment

Next, a video-recording system 1 implemented by a second embodiment ofthe present invention is explained. The video-recording system 1implemented by the second embodiment is different from thevideo-recording system 1 implemented by the first embodiment only inthat the imaging apparatus 10 does not add camera-setting meta data to avideo signal and the meta-data addition apparatus 40 thus gathers up allmeta data, adding all the meta data to a video signal. Since otherfunctional configurations of the second embodiment are the same as theircounterparts in the first embodiment, their explanation is not repeated.

By referring to FIG. 14, the following description explains the overallconfiguration of the video-recording system 1 implemented by thisembodiment and unique processing functions of apparatus employed in theembodiment. It is to be noted that FIG. 16 is a block diagram showing arough configuration of the video-recording system 1 implemented by theembodiment.

As shown in FIG. 14, the video-recording system 1 implemented by theembodiment has a configuration in which, for example, the CCU 20 iscapable of supplying camera-setting meta data received from the imagingapparatus 10 to the meta-data addition apparatus 40 by way of typicallyan RS-232C cable provided separately from the path for the video signal.This configuration is effective for an imaging apparatus 10 incapable ofadding camera-setting meta data to the video signal of each frame unlikethe imaging apparatus 10 employed in the first embodiment.

To put it in detail, the imaging apparatus 10 employed in the firstembodiment is provided with the meta-data addition unit 112 as shown inFIG. 7. On the other hand, the imaging apparatus 10 employed in thesecond embodiment is typically provided with no meta-data addition unit112. Thus, the imaging apparatus 10 employed in the second embodimentdoes not add camera-setting meta data to each frame represented by thevideo signal generated typically by the signal-processing unit 106.Instead, the imaging apparatus 10 merely outputs the video signal as itis from the transmission/reception unit 114 to the CCU 20. However, theimaging apparatus 10 and the CCU 20 exchange information such ascamera-setting meta data of the imaging apparatus 10 through an opticalcable or the like. Thus, the CCU 20 is capable of acquiring thecamera-setting meta data of the imaging apparatus 10 when required.Accordingly, the CPU 200 or another component included in the CCU 20 iscapable of sequentially supplying for example the camera-setting metadata to the meta-data addition apparatus 40 by way of typically anRS-232C cable provided separately from the path for the video signal.The camera-setting meta data received from the CCU 20 in this way isstored in the meta-data buffer memory 403 employed in the meta-dataaddition apparatus 40 along with meta data of the other meta-datagroups.

Much like the first embodiment described above, the meta-data additionapparatus 40 typically puts the camera-setting meta data received fromthe CCU 20 in a group separated from the groups of the scene-informationmeta data, the lens-setting meta data and the dolly-setting meta data.Furthermore, the meta-data addition apparatus 40 typically packs thesefour meta-data groups in a package by carrying out a KLV encodingprocess and sequentially inserts the package into the blanking area of avideo signal received from the CCU 20 as a video signal of every frame.By inserting the package in this way, for example, the meta-dataaddition apparatus 40 is thus capable of adding all meta data to thevideo signal of every frame. Since processing carried out afterward byother apparatus such as the VTR 50 is about the same as that of thefirst embodiment, its explanation is not repeated.

As described above, in the video-recording system 1 implemented by thesecond embodiment, the meta-data addition apparatus 40 is capable ofcollecting as well as gathering up typically the scene-information metadata, the lens-setting meta data, the dolly-setting meta data and thecamera-setting meta data, which are generated in the video-recordingsystem 1, and adding all the meta data to a video signal. Thus, even ifan imaging apparatus 10 having no function to add meta data to a videosignal is employed, the video-recording system 1 implemented by thesecond embodiment is capable of adding all the meta data to a videosignal of every frame.

As described above, in accordance with the video-recording systems 1implemented by the first and second embodiments as well as thevideo-recording method using the video-recording systems 1, meta datarelated to a video signal being generated by the imaging apparatus 10 ina shooting operation can be added to the video signal of every frame ina real-time manner and can thus be recorded on the same recording mediumas the video signal. Accordingly, unlike the conventional system, it isno longer necessary to use information such as a time code as a meansfor linking meta data recorded in a terminal such as a PC to a videomaterial recorded on a recording medium. That is to say, a videomaterial and meta data related to the video material can be directlylinked with each other and recorded on the same recording medium. Thus,a video material and meta data related to the video material can bemanaged in an integrated manner, resulting in convenience. In addition,in an operation to extract meta data related to a video material, it isnot necessary to specially establish matching between the meta data andthe video material so that only necessary meta data can be extracted,used and renewed with a high degree of efficiency.

At a stage of editing a video material, for example, the video materialis edited to cut out its portion between In and Out points. Even in thiscase, meta data for the portion of the video material is also cut outalong with the portion. Thus, meta data related to a video material canbe extracted and displayed continuously in synchronization with thevideo material without the need to specially establish matching betweenthe meta data and the video material. In addition, even if a videomaterial is to be subjected to a process such as post processing, metadata can be extracted speedily and easily from the video materialobtained as a result of an editing process and used in the postprocessing. By monitoring a video material and meta data related to thevideo material at the same time, for example, the operator is capable ofgrasping the picture quality and movement of the video material tomention a few with a high degree of accuracy.

In addition, even if the imaging apparatus 10 is used for carrying out ashooting operation at a variable speed so that the frame rate of therecorded video signal also changes, meta data is added to the videosignal of every frame. Thus, there is no discrepancy between the numberof frames included in the video signal per unit time and the number ofrecorded pieces of meta data per unit time. As a result, the videomaterial can be correctly linked to meta data related to the videomaterial to keep up with such a variable-speed shooting operation.

In addition, meta data is put in different groups intended for differentpurposes of utilizing the meta data as described, and the groups areadded to a video signal associated with the meta data. Thus, meta datacan be extracted, renewed or subjected to other operations in groupunits. In this way, the amount of meta data to be extracted, renewed orsubjected to other operations can be reduced by excluding unnecessarygroups from the extraction, renewal or other operations. As a result,the processing efficiency can be increased. In addition, by monitoringand/or replacing only specific meta-data groups, the monitoring and/orreplacement operations can be carried out easily as well as speedily.For example, only scene-information meta data is extracted at a shootingand recording stage and displayed by superimposition of the meta data onan image so that persons such as the cameraman and the director arecapable of accurately grasping index information of a video materialbeing shot and recorded or a video material reproduced from a recordingmedium. The index information includes a time code, a scene number and atake number. In addition, if post processing such as a CG synthesisprocess is carried out at an editing stage, typically, onlycamera-setting meta data is extracted and displayed on a display unitemployed in an edit apparatus. Thus, it is possible to grasp the picturequalities of a video material. The picture qualities include thebrightness, tint and texture of the video material. By extractingtypically lens-setting meta data and dolly-setting meta data anddisplaying them on the display unit employed in the edit apparatus, onthe other hand, it is possible to accurately grasp the movement andother states, which were displayed by the imaging apparatus 10 and theshooting object during the shooting operation. In addition, by adding acomment made by persons such as the cameraman and/or the director duringan operation to record a video material to scene-information meta data,for example, the shooting department, the editing department and otherdepartments can communicate with each other about the video material. Anexample of the comment is a memorandum about shooting conditions.

So far, the preferred embodiments of the present invention have beenexplained by referring to accompanying drawings. However, theconfiguration of the present invention is not limited to theseembodiments. It is obvious that a person skilled in the art is able tothink of a variety of modified and/or corrected versions within thedomain of a technological concept described in the range of claimsappended to this specification. Such modified and/or corrected versionsare also of course considered to be versions falling in thetechnological range of the present invention.

For example, in the video-recording systems 1 implemented by the firstand second embodiments described above, the apparatus such as themeta-data addition apparatus 40, the imaging apparatus 10, the CCU 20and the VTR 50 are implemented as pieces of hardware separated from eachother. However, the scope of the present invention is not limited to theconfiguration with such separated pieces of hardware. For example, theconfiguration can be changed to one in which some or all of themeta-data addition apparatus 40, the imaging apparatus 10, the CCU 20and the VTR 50 can be integrated to form a single piece of hardware.Typical changes are explained by giving examples as follows.

First of all, the configuration of the video-recording system 1including a first typical modified version is explained by referring toFIG. 15. It is to be noted that FIG. 15 is a block diagram showing arough configuration of the video-recording system 1 including the firsttypical modified version.

As shown in FIG. 15, in the video-recording system 1 including a firsttypical modified version, the meta-data addition apparatus 40 isembedded in the video-signal recording/reproduction apparatus such asthe VTR 50. Thus, information such as the scene-information meta data,the lens-setting meta data and the dolly-setting meta data is suppliedto the VTR 50 from apparatus such as the lens apparatus 12, the dollyapparatus 14 and the meta-data input terminal 30 through RS-232C cablesor the like. The processing function of the meta-data addition apparatus40 embedded in the VTR 50 is typically about the same as that of themeta-data addition apparatus 40 employed in the first embodiment. Thatis to say, various kinds of input meta data are grouped before beingsubjected to a KLV encoding process and, then, a result of the encodingprocess is added to the video signal of every frame. As described above,the meta-data addition apparatus 40 can be integrated with the VTR 50 toform a single piece of hardware.

Next, the configuration of the video-recording system 1 including asecond typical modified version is explained by referring to FIG. 16. Itis to be noted that FIG. 16 is a block diagram showing a roughconfiguration of the video-recording system 1 including the secondtypical modified version.

As shown in FIG. 16, in the video-recording system 1 including a secondtypical modified version, the meta-data addition apparatus 40 isembedded in the imaging apparatus 10. Thus, information such as thescene-information meta data, the lens-setting meta data and thedolly-setting meta data is supplied to the imaging apparatus 10 fromapparatus such as the lens apparatus 12, the dolly apparatus 14 and themeta-data input terminal 30 through RS-232C cables or the like. Theprocessing function of the meta-data addition apparatus 40 embedded inthe imaging apparatus 10 is typically equivalent to a combination theprocessing functions of the meta-data addition unit 112 and themeta-data addition apparatus 40, which are employed in the firstembodiment. As described earlier, the meta-data addition unit 112employed in the first embodiment adds camera-setting meta data to avideo signal whereas the meta-data addition apparatus 40 employed in thefirst embodiment adds scene-information meta data, lens-setting metadata and dolly-setting meta data to a video signal. To put it in detail,the meta-data addition apparatus 40 embedded in the imaging apparatus 10puts typically the four different pieces of input meta data in groupsand carries out a KLV encoding process on the groups. Then, a result ofthe encoding process is added to the video signal of every frame. Thus,as described above, the meta-data addition apparatus 40 can be embeddedin the imaging apparatus 10 and, in the imaging apparatus 10,camera-setting meta data, scene-information meta data, lens-setting metadata and dolly-setting meta data can all be added to a video signal.

By having the meta-data addition apparatus 40 embedded in the VTR 50 orthe imaging apparatus 10 as described above, the number of apparatuscomposing the video-recording system 1 can be reduced and the time andthe labor, which are required to connect the apparatus with each other,can also be decreased as well.

In addition, in the video-recording systems 1 including the first orsecond typical modified version, typically, the CCU 20 is not providedand a video signal is transmitted from the imaging apparatus 10 to theVTR 50 through an HD SDI cable or the like. In this way, the function ofthe CCU 20 can of course be included in the imaging apparatus 10.

In addition, the imaging apparatus 10 can also be designed as an imagingapparatus having a function to record a video signal onto a recordingmedium. An example of the imaging apparatus having a function to recorda video signal onto a recording medium is a cam coder. It is to be notedthat the configuration of such an imaging apparatus is shown in none ofthe figures. Provided with such a function, the imaging apparatus 10thus has the functions of all the imaging apparatus 10, the CCU 20, themeta-data addition apparatus 40 and the VTR 50.

In addition, in the embodiments described above, lens-setting meta datagenerated by the lens apparatus 12 is output to the meta-data additionapparatus 40 through an RS-232C cable or the like, and added to a videosignal by the meta-data addition apparatus 40. However, theconfiguration of the present invention is not limited to theseembodiments. For example, a lens apparatus 12 capable of communicatinglens-setting information to the main unit of the imaging apparatus 10can also be employed so that the lens apparatus 12 is capable ofsupplying information such as lens-setting meta data directly to themain unit of the imaging apparatus 10. It is thus possible to provide aconfiguration in which the meta-data addition unit 112 employed in theimaging apparatus 10 is capable of adding not only camera-setting metadata but also for example lens-setting meta data received from the lensapparatus 12 to a video signal.

In addition, in the embodiments described above, the RS-232C interfaceis adopted as an interface for communicating information such as thevarious kinds of meta data among the apparatus. However, theconfiguration of the present invention is not limited to theseembodiments. For example, the present invention may also adopt any oneof a variety of other interfaces such as a USB (Universal Serial Bus), aserial SCSI (Small Computer System Interface), a serial SCSI, a GP-IB(General Purpose Interface Bus). In addition, information such as metadata and a video signal can be transmitted among the apparatus by notonly wire communications as described above, but also for example radiocommunications.

In addition, in the embodiments described above, various kinds of metadata generated in the video-recording system 1 are packed into fourdifferent meta-data groups, i.e., the scene-information group, thecamera-setting group, the lens-setting group and the dolly-settinggroup. However, the configuration of the present invention is notlimited to these embodiments. For example, the lens-setting group andthe dolly-setting group can also be combined into one group named alens/dolly-setting group. In addition, instead of providing all the fourdifferent meta-data groups, only one or more of the meta-segment groupsmay be selected.

In addition, a new meta-data group can be provided besides the fourdifferent meta-data groups mentioned above. To put it concretely, forexample, an audio-information group is newly provided as a groupincluding sound-related-information meta data such as information on arecording method and information on recorded data. The information on arecording method indicates a recording type such as stereo recording,monaural recording or surround recording. On the other hand, theinformation on recorded data indicates that, for example, a firstmicrophone is used for inputting a background sound while a secondmicrophone is used for inputting a voice of a film star.

As described above, the video-recording system 1 implemented by theembodiments has the meta-data synthesis apparatus 60 and the displayapparatus 70. However, the configuration of the video-recording system 1is not limited to the embodiments. That is to say, the meta-datasynthesis apparatus 60 and the display apparatus 70 are not necessarilyrequired.

As described above, in accordance with the present invention, a videomaterial and meta data related to the video material can be recordedonto the same recording medium by directly linking the video material tothe meta data. Thus, necessary meta data can be extracted and displayedwith a high degree of efficiency. In addition, the video material andthe meta data can be managed in an integrated manner. Further, even inspecial cases such as a case in which the video material is cut out inan editing process or a case in which the video material is shot at avariable frame rate, the meta data can be utilized with a high degree offlexibility to keep up with such cases.

1. A video-recording system for recording a video signal generated by an imaging apparatus and meta data related to said video signal onto a recording medium, wherein said meta data is added to said video signal of every frame and said video signal including said additional meta data is recorded onto said recording medium.
 2. A video-recording system according to claim 1, wherein said meta data added to said video signal is packed in one or more meta-data groups intended for different purposes of utilizing said meta data.
 3. A video-recording system according to claim 2, wherein said meta-data groups include at least one of a scene-information group, a camera-setting group, a lens-setting group and a dolly-setting group where said scene-information group is defined as a meta-data group containing information on a scene shot by said imaging apparatus, said camera-setting group is defined as a meta-data group containing setting information of said imaging apparatus, said lens-setting group is defined as a meta-data group containing setting information of a lens apparatus employed in said imaging apparatus and said dolly-setting group is defined as a meta-data group containing setting information of a dolly apparatus employed in said imaging apparatus.
 4. A video-recording system according to claim 2, wherein a unique group identification is assigned to each of said meta-data groups added to said video signal.
 5. A video-recording system according to claim 2, wherein information on the amount of data contained in a meta-data group is appended to each of said meta-data groups added to said video signal.
 6. A video-recording system according to claim 2, wherein, when at least one of said meta-data groups is added to an area of said video signal, pieces of dummy data are added to other areas included in said video signal as areas allocated to the other-meta-data groups.
 7. A video-recording system according to claim 1, wherein said meta data is added to said video signal by inserting said meta data into a blanking area of said video signal.
 8. A video-recording system according to claim 1, wherein said imaging apparatus is capable of shooting an object by varying the frame rate of said video signal.
 9. A meta-data addition apparatus for adding meta data related to a video signal generated by an imaging apparatus to every frame of said video signal.
 10. A meta-data addition apparatus according to claim 9, wherein said meta data is packed in one or more meta-data groups intended for different purposes of utilizing said meta data and said meta-data groups are added to said video signal.
 11. A meta-data addition apparatus according to claim 10, wherein said meta-data groups include at least one of a scene-information group, a camera-setting group, a lens-setting group and a dolly-setting group where said scene-information group is defined as a meta-data group containing information on a scene shot by said imaging apparatus, said camera-setting group is defined as a meta-data group containing setting information of said imaging apparatus, said lens-setting group is defined as a meta-data group containing setting information of a lens apparatus employed in said imaging apparatus and said dolly-setting group is defined as a meta-data group containing setting information of a dolly apparatus employed in said imaging apparatus.
 12. A meta-data addition apparatus according to claim 10, wherein a unique group identification is assigned to each of said meta-data groups added to said video signal.
 13. A meta-data addition apparatus according to claim 10, wherein information on the amount of data contained in a meta-data group is appended to each of said meta-data groups added to said video signal.
 14. A meta-data addition apparatus according to claim 10, wherein, when at least a specific one of said meta-data groups is added to a specific area of said video signal, pieces of dummy data are added to other areas included in said video signal as areas allocated to the other-meta-data groups.
 15. A meta-data addition apparatus according to claim 9, wherein said meta data is added to said video signal by inserting said meta data into a blanking area of said video signal.
 16. An imaging apparatus comprising: an imaging unit for shooting an object and generating a video signal representing said object; and a meta-data addition apparatus for adding meta data related to said video signal to every frame of said video signal.
 17. An imaging apparatus according to claim 16, wherein said meta data is packed in one or more meta-data groups intended for different purposes of utilizing said meta data and said meta-data groups are added to said video signal.
 18. An imaging apparatus according to claim 16, said imaging apparatus capable of shooting an object by varying the frame rate of said video signal.
 19. A video-signal-recording apparatus comprising: a meta-data addition apparatus for adding meta data related to a video signal generated by an imaging apparatus to every frame of said video signal; and a recording unit for recording said video signal including said additional meta data onto a recording medium.
 20. A video-signal-recording apparatus according to claim 19, wherein said meta-data addition apparatus packs said meta data in one or more meta-data groups intended for different purposes of utilizing said meta data and adds said meta-data groups to said video signal.
 21. A video-recording method for recording a video signal generated by an imaging apparatus and meta data related to said video signal onto a recording medium, wherein said video signal and said meta data are recorded onto said recording medium by adding said meta data to every frame of said video signal.
 22. A video-recording method according to claim 21, wherein said meta data to be added to said video signal is packed in one or more meta-data groups intended for different purposes of utilizing said meta data.
 23. A video-recording method according to claim 22, wherein said meta-data groups include at least one of a scene-information group, a camera-setting group, a lens-setting group and a dolly-setting group where said scene-information group is defined as a meta-data group containing information on a scene shot by said imaging apparatus, said camera-setting group is defined as a meta-data group containing setting information of said imaging apparatus, said lens-setting group is defined as a meta-data group containing setting information of a lens apparatus employed in said imaging apparatus and said dolly-setting group is defined as a meta-data group containing setting information of a dolly apparatus employed in said imaging apparatus.
 24. A video-recording method according to claim 22, wherein a unique group identification is assigned to each of said meta-data groups.
 25. A video-recording method according to claim 22, wherein information on the amount of data contained in a meta-data group is appended to each of meta-data groups.
 26. A video-recording method according to claim 22, wherein, when at least a specific one of said meta-data groups is added to a specific area of said video signal, pieces of dummy data are added to other areas included in said video signal as areas allocated to the other meta-data groups.
 27. A video-recording method according to claim 21, wherein said meta data is added to said video signal by inserting said meta data into a blanking area of said video signal.
 28. A video-recording method according to claim 21, wherein said imaging unit is capable of shooting an object by varying the frame rate of said video signal.
 29. A meta-data format of meta data related to a video signal wherein, in accordance with said meta-data format, meta data is packed in a plurality of meta-data groups intended for different purposes of utilizing said meta data and said meta-data groups are arranged in series in said video signal.
 30. A meta-data format according to claim 29., wherein, in accordance with said meta-data format, said meta-data groups include at least one of a scene-information group, a camera-setting group, a lens-setting group and a dolly-setting group where said scene-information group is defined as a meta-data group containing information on a scene shot by said imaging apparatus, said camera-setting group is defined as a meta-data group containing setting information of said imaging apparatus, said lens-setting group is defined as a meta-data group containing setting information of a lens apparatus employed in said imaging apparatus and said dolly-setting group is defined as a meta-data group containing setting information of a dolly apparatus employed in said imaging apparatus.
 31. A meta-data format according to claim 29, wherein, in accordance with said meta-data format, a unique group identification is assigned to each of said meta-data groups added to said video signal.
 32. A meta-data format according to claim 29, wherein, in accordance with said meta-data format, the amount of data contained in a meta-data group is appended to each of said meta-data groups added to said video signal. 